How To Crochet The Popcorn Stitch

Learn how to crochet the popcorn stitch in this step by step tutorial.

This stitch is fun to create and adds lots of texture to your work.

It adds thickness and can be used in many patterns from blankets to accessories.

Popcorn Stitch

The popcorn stitch (abbreviated pop or pc) is a nicely rounded, compact oval that stands out from the fabric.

It takes a bit more time to make than other raised stitches, but it’s well worth the effort.

You can work popcorn stitches so that they “pop” to the front or the back of the fabric, depending on where you want them to stand out.

Crochet Popcorn Stitch

This stitch is similar to making the shell stitch, as you use double crochets to make a fan shape and then join that together to make a bobble.

It may seem complicated, but once you try it out, you will see how easy it is!

Take a look through the step by step tutorial below.

Step 1  – Make a foundation chain

Choose your hook and yarn, then make a foundation chain with an odd number of stitches, for example, you could chain 19 stitches, to begin with.

Step 2 – Work 1 row of single crochet

Starting in the second chain from the hook, work one row of single crochet.

Step 3 – Create the first popcorn stitch

In the second row, you will chain 1 then work like this into the next stitch;

To make a popcorn stitch – work 5 double crochets into the same stitch.

This should look like a fan or shell.

Step 4 – Place the hook into the first double crochet

Pull up the loop you are working with so it is safe from being pulled out.

Take your hook out of the loop.

Then place it onto the first of the five double crochet stitches you have made.

Step 5 – Place your hook into the working loop

Keeping your hook in that first double crochet stitch, now also hook the working loop.

Once that loop is on your hook, you can tighten it up again. 

Step 6 – Create a popcorn by closing up that stitch

Pull the working loop through the loops of the first double crochet stitch.

This will create the popcorn shape.

Step 7 – Complete a row of popcorn stitches

Complete the row of popcorn stitches by following this;

*Work 1 single crochet, then 1 popcorn stitch*

Repeat this across the row and end with 1 single crochet.

Remember to form the popcorn stitch you need to work 5 double crochets into the same stitch.

Step 8 – Turn the work

When you have completed your row of popcorn stitches, it is time to chain 1 and turn the work.

On the reverse side, you work 1 row of single crochet.

The top of the popcorn stitches don’t look like little V’s but they are the straighter stitches between the V’s.

Popcorn Stitch Crochet Patterns

The popcorn stitch can use up lots of yarn, so make sure you have enough for whatever pattern you decide to make.

The popcorn stitch looks similar to the bobble stitch but the process is slightly different.

Make sure you check your pattern for whichever stitch it is asking you to use.

An easy way to practice is to make this popcorn stitch wash mitt!

You can find the free pattern here.